FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM Fallopian Tube You will be

FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

Fallopian Tube You will be asked to label the diagram to the right on both Quiz #3 and on the Final Exam It’s important for you to take notice that the Cervix and Uterus appear to be pointing to the same thing. Understand that the line for the Uterus is referencing the entire pear shaped muscular structure. The Cervix line is pointing to the OPENING to the uterus. Ovary Endometrium Vagina Uterus Cervix

Female Reproductive Organs Fallopian Tubes: a pair of tubes with fingerlike projections that draw in the ovum. Cilia: hair-like structures that work along with muscular contractions in the fallopian tubes to move the ovum along. Vagina: a muscular, elastic passageway that extends from the uterus to the outside of the body. Sperm from the male enter the female reproductive system through the vagina. If sperm are present in the fallopian tubes, a sperm cell may unite with an ovum, resulting in fertilization. The fertilization of an egg by a sperm produces a cell called a zygote. When a zygote leaves the fallopian tube it enters the uterus. It then attaches to the uterine wall and begins to grow. The uterine wall prepares for the zygote by thickening and is rich in blood enabling the uterus to nourish the zygote. The fetus will remain attached to the uterine wall until birth.

Menstruation In a mature female, each month the uterus prepares for possible pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occurs, the thickened lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) breaks down into blood tissue and fluids and pass through the cervix. Menstruation – shedding of the uterine lining Cervix – the opening to the uterus Menstrual cycle ends within five to seven days and the cycle starts over again. Most females begin their menstrual cycle between the ages of ten and fifteen. The cycle may be irregular at first. As a female grows and matures, her menstrual cycle usually becomes more predictable. Endocrine hormones control the cycle, but poor nutrition, stress, and illness can influence it.

Care of the Female Reproductive System Good hygiene is very important for maintaining health of the female reproductive system. In a mature female, cells in the lining of the vagina are constantly being shed, causing a slight vaginal discharge. Cleanliness will help eliminate odors. Bathe regularly during menstrual period, change tampons or sanitary pads (feminine deodorant sprays and douches are not necessary and may cause irritation or infection in the sensitive tissues around the vagina) Practice abstinence from sexual activity. It is the only 100% effective method in preventing pregnancy and STDs.

Care of the Female Reproductive System Breast self-exam: Breast cancer is the most common cancer and second leading cause of death after lung cancer in women. Early detection is an important factor in the successful treatment of breast cancer. How to perform a breast self-exam: - Lie down and place a pillow under the right shoulder - Place the right arm behind the head - Use the fingers of the left hand to feel for lumps or thickening in the right breast - Move around the breast in a circle, then up and down while going over the entire breast area - Examine the left breast with the right hand - Use the same technique to examine both breasts while standing, with one arm behind the head. - In a standing position, check the upper and outer parts of the breasts, toward the armpit. - Standing in front of a mirror, inspect the breasts for any dimpling of the skin, changes in the nipple, redness, or swelling.

Problems of the Female Reproductive System Menstrual Cramps: Sometimes occur at the beginning of a menstrual period. Light exercise or applying a heating pad to the abdominal area may help relieve symptoms. A health care professional may recommend medication for pain relief. Severe or persistent cramping, called dysmenorrhea, may be an indication that professional health services are required. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) – a disorder caused by hormonal changes. Symptoms may be experienced one to two weeks before menstruation include: nervous tension, anxiety, irritability, bloating, weight gain, depression, mood swings, and fatigue. Regular physical activity and good nutrition may reduce the severity of symptoms.

Problems of the Female Reproductive System Toxic Shock System (TSS) • TSS is a rare BUT serious bacterial infection • It affects the immune system and the liver and can be fatal • Warning signs include: • fever • vomiting • diarrhea • a sunburn like rash • red eyes • dizziness • and muscle aches • To reduce the risk use tampons with lowest absorbency and change often.

Problems Related to Infertility Endometriosis • Occurs when tissue that lines the uterus migrates and grows in the ovaries, fallopian tubes or the uterus. • Very painful abdominal condition • Treatments include • Pain medications • Hormone therapy • Surgery • This causes infertility because the abnormal growth of the endometrium will block the sperm from reaching the egg for fertilization.

Problems Related to Infertility Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) • PID is an infection in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the surrounding areas of the pelvis. • PID is usually caused by sexually transmitted diseases • It can lead to irreversible damage to the FRS and is the primary preventable cause of infertility in women.

Problems Related to Infertility Sexually Transmitted Diseases • STDs are the most common causes of infertility and other disorders of the reproductive system. Symptoms of STDs are often not evident in females unless a medical examination is performed. • The only way to avoid STDs is to abstain from engaging in sexual activity. Even with contraception use, there is always a chance of transmission.

Other Female Reproductive Disorders Vaginitis: caused by bacterial vaginosis, most common vaginal infection in women of child-bearing age. Accompanied by discharge, odor, pain, itching, or burning. If not treated with antibiotics, vaginitis can sometimes lead to PID Block Fallopian Tubes: the leading cause of infertility, may result from PID, abdominal surgery, STDs, or endometriosis. Ovarian cysts: are fluid-filled sacs on the ovary. These non-cancerous cysts usually disappear on their own, however, larger cysts may require surgery. Cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancer – early sexual activity and STDs such as Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) are related to an increased incidence of cervical cancer. Regular check-ups and pelvic exams are important for early detection and treatment.